National Recognition for the MARKeting Club at H-E-B School of Business in Health Care Advertising Competition

In an outstanding display of talent, the MARKeting Club at the H-E-B School of Business and Administration (HEBSBA) at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) secured the third position in a national advertising competition hosted by Omnicom Health Group and Harrison/Star. The four-week competition challenged teams to develop an advertising campaign for a client in the pharmaceutical industry.

The team, consisting of Mia Sandoval and Mia Ortiz, both marketing majors at HEBSBA, and guided by the expertise of Dr. Roberto Saldivar, Associate Professor of Marketing, showcased their expertise in strategic thinking and creativity. Under the mentorship of Jacqueline MacDonald, VP Group Account Supervisor at Biolumina, and other industry professionals, the team demonstrated the exceptional potential of HEBSBA students on a national stage, competing against universities from across the country.

Mia Ortiz, expressing her enthusiasm, said, “For my first semester here at UIW as a transfer student, I was looking for ways to get involved and make memories, and the brand challenge was perfect! A fun and unique experience where I got to apply my marketing skills and further my creativity.”

Mia Sandoval added, “This brand challenge was unlike anything I've ever experienced. It was strategic, creative, fun, and realistic. I had to take all the skills I've learned at UIW and put them to the test. I have found that this brand challenge can be useful and enjoyable to anyone, and my hope is that more students get inspired to participate.”

Dr. Roberto Saldivar expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am grateful to Omnicom Health Group, Harrison/Star, and everyone else that helped organize this event! I am also so proud of our student team members! Mia and Mia stepped up and did a great job in every aspect of the competition.”

As a testament to their achievement, the students from the winning team have been awarded guaranteed summer internships with an Omnicom Health Group advertising company in New York City. This recognition not only underscores the excellence of the HEBSBA MARKeting Club but also highlights the practical skills and industry relevance instilled in students at the H-E-B School of Business and Administration.